Incident records
Keep photos or video, an incident or police report number, the date and exact location, and the names of people involved. Save original files when possible. Write a dated account while your memory is fresh, and mark any details you are unsure about.
Witness and contact information
Record witnesses’ names and ways to reach them. Keep the names and contact information of any business, driver, property owner, insurer, or agency involved. A lawyer can help determine which parties matter legally.
Treatment and recovery
Collect discharge instructions, appointment summaries, referrals, prescriptions, bills, and insurance explanations of benefits. Keep a dated record of treatment and work restrictions. Describe symptoms accurately without trying to diagnose yourself.
Financial records
Save pay records, employer absence records, repair estimates, receipts, travel costs, and other documents showing actual expenses. Keep bills and proof of payment separately; the amounts billed, paid, and still owed may differ.
Insurance and claim correspondence
Save policy declarations, claim numbers, letters, emails, texts, and notes of calls. Record the date, person, request, and your response. Do not alter documents or post private medical information publicly.